Saturday, March 20, 2010, CCHS Senior and Basketball Stand-out Hunter Crook participated in a special Senior Basketball Showcase. Unlike other sport showcases that mostly dwell on drills that depict skills, this showcase was an actual game. College Coaches were the spectators to see how each player worked on a team, as well as to view desirable skills that would translate into a great college basketball player. The showcase at Northeastern High School in Elizabeth City consisted of the best senior basketball players in Northeast North Carolina and Southeast Virginia. Together, the athletes battled out a great game, where they not only impressed the college coaches, but also were able to hang out with past rivals in a game they will never forget.

Only a hand-full of student athletes carry their high school sports to the next level; and Camden is not an exception. Still, so far this school year, three known athletes are communicating with college coaches on their quest to play collegiate basketball and volleyball. In addition to Hunter Crook seeking a college basketball position, Seniors Taylor Cannon and Leanne Burton are looking for a chance to play volleyball at the collegiate level too.

As for Senior Hunter Crook, he has been playing basketball since he was in grade school. In a brief interview, he revealed how basketball has shaped his past and is contouring his future. After being asked why he wanted to continue playing basketball in college, Crook uncovered that his ardor is basketball. 

Just like most athletes, Crook has many people that inspired and guided him to reach his goals for college. One of his motivations was Crook’s older brother, Josh Crook. “Josh had aroused a love for basketball in me from an early age by simply playing outside,” Crook said. “My brother, Josh, also inspired me to play because he played collegiate basketball at Mount Olive College.” Due to his brother’s success in the game, Crook was motivated at a very early age to play in college. 

Crook also accredits Mark Harnly, the varsity basketball coach at Camden. Crook explained that Coach Harnly helped him with his college endeavors. Whether it be helping him find basketball showcases or keeping him in contact with college coaches, Coach Harnly was a mentor to Crook teaching him more about life than just fundamentals.

According to Crook, not only have people inspired his life, but the game of basketball itself has too. Crook gave a certain explanation that elucidated how basketball has improved his character. “Basketball has improved many things about my life. Not only has it taught me commitment and sacrifice, but has assisted me in become a leader, as well as a worthy team mate,” Crook said.